With St. Patrick’s day right around the corner, Pittsburghers have been gathering their green shirts and clover necklaces in preparation for a long celebratory weekend. Whether you are new to the city or a long-time resident, knowing where to find the best Irish pubs in the Steel City is crucial if you want to dig into your Irish (or not-so-Irish) roots and enjoy a good brew.
We’ve got a list of the must-go places in Pittsburgh for anyone looking to enjoy an Irish-inspired outing this festive season.
Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle
Sitting in the heart of Pittsburgh’s iconic Strip District, Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle offers a fully immersive pub experience, with live music, plenty of whiskey options, and a food menu that features Irish speciality eats. This local favorite has been serving-up drinks since 1992 and has established itself as a go-to pub for locals and visitors in search of a good drink. Stop in and ask for their Shepherd’s Pie with a shot of Bushmills Irish whiskey.
Twitter: @mullaneysharp
Monterey Pub
A North Side tavern nestled in the Mexican War Streets, Monterey Pub offers vintage booths and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re sitting somewhere in Dublin. You can enjoy an Irish-inspired drink and great conversation by their crackling fireplace; this place has a cozy feel that you don’t find in many Pittsburgh bars. The best part about this spot? Definitely their eats. Ask for a Guiness and one of their Bangers & Mash Irish, which features banger sausages in a Guinness and caramelized onion pan gravy, served with garlic smashed potatoes — it is seriously amazing.
Twitter: @Monterey_Pub
Claddagh Irish Pub
Arguably one of SouthSide Works best spots for a brew, Claddagh Irish Pub offers an open, rustic atmosphere, with warm lighting and plenty of TVs for sports fans. Pittsburgh Steelers, anyone? Locals can even book sections of this restaurant for events throughout the year and their staff are happy to help. This pub’s Irish-themed menu features an array of meal options for anyone looking to grab a quick bite to eat or a full meal. Their Corned Beef & Cabbage Rolls are delicious with one of their seasonal drafts — I prefer one of Rivertowne Brewing Co.’s local brews.
Twitter: @CladdaghPitt
McFadden’s Saloon
If you’re looking for an upbeat atmosphere and a place where you can really let loose, check out McFadden’s Saloon, a Pittsburgh pub nestled in the North Shore. This saloon can also be found in other cities across the U.S., like New York and Chicago, and it is a fully established pub for Pittsburghers to enjoy. This spot is located right next to PNC Park and Stage AE, so if you’re out for a concert or looking to cheer on one of the Steel City’s sports teams, you can stop by their mahogany bar for a drink. McFadden’s Saloon also has over thirty HD Tvs and a back patio with great views of the city. Next time you’re in the area, stop in and ask for Mick’s Legendary Wings with the McFadden’s Glaze and one (or three) of their whiskey cocktails.
Twitter: @McFaddensPitt
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Mahoney’s Restaurant and Lounge
If you find yourself in downtown Pittsburgh this March, stop into Mahoney’s Restaurant and Lounge. This quaint and classic pub sits right on Liberty Avenue, so you can stop in for a drink before you meander around the Cultural District, where you can find plenty of performances and tasteful exhibits. What makes this place special? Their Mahoney’s Reuben is everything you could want in a sandwich. Ask for one.
Twitter: @mahoneysrest
Pittsburgh’s spring is right around the corner, and with more green comes more pubs, and with more pubs comes more opportunities to explore your Irish roots! Whether you have the luck of the Irish on your side, or you’re just looking for some local fun, there are plenty of Irish pubs to explore. Now, grab a friend, put on some green, and explore the indefinable Celtic ethos that all of these pubs have to offer. Make sure you book that curing brunch for the morning after at one of Pittsburgh’s best brunch spots.